Large-scale shaking table model tests and numerical simulation for composite reinforcement aseismic measure of high earth rockfill dam

Abstract

<p indent="0mm">The aseismic safety of high earth rockfill dams is an important problem in engineering construction in the intensive earthquake area of West China. A composite reinforcement aseismic measure (CRAM) for high earth rockfill dams was developed. The CRAM’s effectiveness and reliability were validated using comparative model tests on a large-scale shaking table. Numerical simulation was used to examine the CRAM’s reinforcement mechanism. The results demonstrated that the CRAM had an inhibiting effect on the acceleration response; the CRAM can effectively inhibit the loosening and slipping of rockfill at the crest and reduce earthquake-induced permanent deformation. The numerical simulation also revealed that the shear strain amplitude and distribution were significantly altered. A slightly larger shear strain appeared at the front of the CRAM’s internal reinforcement materials, and the dam slope’s potential sliding surface was transformed from shallow sliding to deep sliding. As a result, the CRAM can improve the high earth rockfill dam’s seismic safety. The research results can provide a reference for the seismic design of the high rockfill dam in the intensive earthquake area.